Christian rugby star voices opposition to gay marriage

Israel Folau, who's considered one of Australia's top rugby players, has used Twitter to voice his opposition to gay marriage ahead of his country's upcoming vote on the issue.

A plebiscite postal vote will take place over the coming months to determine whether Australia should follow the likes of the UK, USA and Ireland in legalising same sex marriage.

The issue has caused much divide across the country with many public bodies backing a change and most church groups opposing.

Writing on Twitter on Wednesday, Folau, who represented his country in the 2015 World Cup final, said: "I love and respect all people for who they are and their opinions. But personally, I will not support gay marriage."

I love and respect all people for who they are and their opinions. but personally, I will not support gay marriage.✌❤